The first semifinal match of the U-17 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia has concluded. The Uzbekistan youth national team faced Japan for a spot in the final and lost in a dramatic penalty shootout.
The match started well for our representatives. In the 28th minute, Asilbek Aliyev successfully converted a penalty, putting the Uzbekistan U-17 team ahead. This goal gave our players extra confidence, and the team put up a worthy fight against the opponent in the first half.
In the second half, Japan tried to increase the pressure. The Uzbekistan youth team played with discipline in defense, trying to maintain the lead. However, the most difficult moment of the match occurred in stoppage time. In the 90+7th minute, Chimeziekai scored to equalize.
The regular time ended in a 1-1 draw, and the finalist was determined by a penalty shootout. Unfortunately, luck was on Japan's side this time. The Japanese players won the shootout 3-2 and advanced to the final.
Thus, the Uzbekistan U-17 national team ended its participation in the Asian Cup in the semifinals. Although they did not reach the final, our youth demonstrated character, confidence, and fighting spirit throughout the tournament.
Most importantly, the Uzbekistan U-17 team secured a spot in the World Cup through this tournament. This is a great experience for this generation and an important step toward bigger goals in the future.
U-17 Asian Cup. Semifinal
Uzbekistan U-17 — Japan U-17 1:1
Penalty shootout: 2:3
Goals: Asilbek Aliyev, 28 (pen) — Chimeziekai, 90+7.
Uzbekistan U-17: Olimjon Shomurodov, Muhammad Hakimov, Muhammad Mamatov, Amirxon Erkinov, Islom Ravshanov, Asilbek Aliyev, Abduraimov 70, Suxrob Sadirjonov, Orifxonov 65, Mirjamol Anvarov, Ahror Ravshanbekov, Adis Abdunabiyev, Abdisoliyev 65, Abubakir Rahimov.
In short, this defeat was painful, especially conceding a goal in the 90+7th minute. But this team should not hang their heads. A semifinal appearance, a World Cup ticket, and courageous play against strong opponents show that this generation has a bright future.
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